Kaitlyn grew up in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and was heavily involved in the local 4H, while also competing in local hunter shows. Immediately after high school, Kaitlyn turned working with horses into her passion and career. She began working in and studying the disciplines of eventing and dressage under several well-regarded trainers. Kaitlyn competed in the lower levels of both, but quickly realized that the competitive route differed from the path she wished to pursue.

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In preparing horses for competition, Kaitlyn grew to recognize the importance of the relationship between horse and rider- a relationship built on understanding, patience, compassion, and trust. These experiences ignited a desire in Kaitlyn to better understand the horse/human relationship and the training principles that reinforce this relationship. She began learning concepts such as positive reinforcement and pressure and release, while always staying attuned to the energy between her, the horse, and the rider.

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As life continued, Kaitlyn found her true passion for teaching, and this is where her career took off. Kaitlyn built a successful training and school program at Honey Brook Stables, the previous home of Horse Class. While there, Kaitlyn honed her teaching skills and had the privilege of watching as her students progressed not only in riding, but in their horsemanship. After the sale of Honey Brook Stables, Kaitlyn and her business partner, Denise Balla, started Concordia Stables, where she continues to teach and train both horses and riders.

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Kaitlyn loves to learn as much as she loves to teach! Over the years, she has worked closely with Frank Burns, Angelo Telatin, Wendy Murdoch, and Patrick King. She has also spent considerable time studying the work of Warwick Schiller and the principles of Natural Lifemanship.

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In her free time, Kaitlyn can be found on her dirt bike, riding through the woods, or taking lessons to improve her skills. Kaitlyn started riding dirt bikes at the age of 30, and quickly found that one of the greatest gifts of this new adventure, is one she did not anticipate. In learning this new sport, Kaitlyn gained the understanding of the physical and mental processes that her clients go through when they come to the barn as adult beginners, or re-riders wanting to get back into a saddle. Kaitlyn also gained the experience of having a coach who has her back 100%, and knows the immense difference this makes. Kaitlyn is thrilled to be that supportive and guiding coach for others as they begin or continue along their journey with horses.

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“One of my favorite things about teaching is the creativity that I use to connect to my riders. I am extremely proud of and grateful for each one of the humans and horses that I have the privilege of working alongside.”